The Bayelsa State Government has demanded a thorough investigation into the shooting that marred a political rally organised by the NEW Associates group at the Church of God Mission Camp Ground in Igbogene, Yenagoa, on Saturday.

In a strongly worded statement issued late Saturday by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the government condemned the violent disruption and called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted without delay.

The government expressed deep concern over the turn of events, stressing that the rally organisers had ominously warned beforehand that “the good, the bad, and the ugly” would be present at the gathering. What was intended to be a peaceful political meeting instead descended into chaos, leaving several individuals reportedly injured.

Koku-Obiyai’s statement emphasized that this troubling incident could not be treated lightly, urging law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in investigating the matter and holding all culprits accountable. She noted that the violence was a clear breach of both the Electoral Act and the guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for political activities.

More troubling, the government observed, was that the rally was held on the grounds of a religious organisation, thereby dragging sacred places of worship into partisan political activities. It warned that any religious institution found allowing its premises to be used for political purposes that breach the law would face sanctions.

The Bayelsa State Government reiterated its commitment to preserving peace and protecting the lives and property of all residents. It vowed to resist any attempt by political groups to destabilize the relative calm the state has enjoyed.

The shooting incident has sparked widespread outrage across Bayelsa, especially as tensions between rival political groups continue to simmer ahead of upcoming elections.